Hollywood Prevue

Declan's Moon strolls at Hollywood

Jay Em Ess Stable's DECLAN'S MOON (Malibu Moon) moved to the

fore turning for home and waltzed home an authoritative winner of

the $100,000 Hollywood Prevue S. (G3) on Saturday. Trained by Ron

Ellis, the gelding was content to rate through the early stages

as Bushwacker (Outflanker) led the field through splits of :21 4/5

and :44 1/5 to the half-mile.

As that one began to tire ever so slightly, Victor Espinoza

took full advantage and Declan's Moon opened up a clear lead by

midstretch, eventually pulling away to a two-length tally under

minimal urging. The overwhelming 2-5 choice completed seven fast

furlongs in a swift 1:21 3/5 and gave back a paltry $2.80, $2.20

and $2.10 while topping the $16.60 exacta ($1) and $43.50 for the

5-8-6 trifecta ($1).

Bushwacker held on gamely to garner the place, giving back $6.20

and $2.60 at 16-1, while Seize the Day (Montbrook) came again on

the outside to get the show, worth $2.20 at 3-1. Southern Africa

(Cape Town) was next and trailed by Megabyte (Chief Seattle),

Beat the Chalk (Valid Wager), Twice Unbridled (Unbridled's Song)

and Power Wave (All Thee Power).

Declan's Moon is now unbeaten from three starts, including a

tally in the Del Mar Futurity (G2) in his outing prior to this one. The

dark bay increased his bankroll to $239,400 following the win.

Bred in Maryland by Brice Ridgely, the winner fetched a bid of

$125,000 at the 2003 Fasig-Tipton Midlantic September Yearling

Sale. He was produced from the Grade 2-placed Vee Vee Star (Norquestor)

and has a yearling half-brother named Dave's Jet (Unbridled

Jet).

Declan's Moon is being pointed toward the December 18

Hollywood Futurity (G1), where he is expected to meet Breeders'

Cup Juvenile (G1) winner Wilko (Awesome Again) and Champagne S. (G1)

victor Proud Accolade (Yes It's True). The unbeaten dark bay

would make a strong case for champion two-year-old honors with a

victory there.